The traditions of Halloween’s past may not all be brought back in 2020 due to COVID-19, but for those who are venturing out, Creighton University is offering a few tips to make beggars night a little less “tricky.” Chair of the Department of Clinical Research and Assistant Dean for Clinical Research and Public Health, Dr. Maureen Tierney, says the first thing they recommend is avoiding indoor activities, such as haunted houses or costume parties. Parents can also make sure that children practice good hand hygiene while out and about with hand sanitizers containing 60 percent or more alcohol. Washing and/or sanitizing before eating any of the collected treats is also very important. She suggests wiping down the treat packaging or letting them sit for a couple of days before handling. Tierney says cloth masks should be used instead of the traditional costume masks. The cloth mask is a COVID-19 barrier and she says layering a costume mask over a cloth face mask can make breathing difficult. As with any other activities, social distancing is recommended and all measures that help protect high-risk individuals should be implemented.
